Public Transport Minister Lynne Kosky said the free City Circle tram would now take visitors direct to the NewQuay and Waterfront City precincts via Docklands Drive from Saturday, 30 May, providing easy access to the growing number of attractions at Docklands.

“I am delighted that the iconic City Circle tram will be linking the attractions of the growing Docklands north-west precinct to the rich array of Melbourne destinations it already services,” Ms Kosky said.

“Melbourne visitors will now have free and convenient access to a wide variety of restaurants, the major shopping precinct of Harbour Town, ice skating at Wonderland Park and a year-round events calendar.

“Each year the City Circle tram takes visitors to many attractions and places of interest including Melbourne Aquarium, Old Melbourne Gaol, Parliament House, the Immigration Museum, Etihad Stadium and Federation Square.

“The Brumby Government is taking action to support the Victorian tourism industry by ensuring all visitors to Melbourne can enjoy the dynamic and diverse offerings of events and tourist attractions that the city has to offer.”

Lord Mayor Robert Doyle encouraged everyone to take advantage of the free tram service and experience the free winter spectacles on show at Docklands.

“I encourage families and people of all ages to get down to Docklands this winter and experience the winter waterfront attractions,” Mr Doyle said.

“There are plenty of reasons to get down to Docklands with our winter event Ignite@Docklands kicking off this Saturday night. There will be a free night of entertainment and light on show and you can get there for free on the City Circle Tram.

“The extended tram route to Waterfront City will also lead customers to the door of Docklands’ next major attraction, Costco, opening in July and of course Harbour Town Shopping Centre.”

The Department of Transport, Yarra Trams, City of Melbourne, ING and VicUrban have worked together to provide this new service and is in addition to direct tram services on routes 30, 48, 70 and 86.

City Circle Trams run in both directions approximately every 12 minutes between 10am and 6pm from Sunday to Wednesday and between 10am and 9pm every Thursday, Friday and Saturday (except Christmas Day and Good Friday).

Detailed route and timetable information on the new service is available by calling Metlink on 131 638 or visiting http://www.metlinkmelbourne.com.au